Karen Gillan is making big moves behind the camera with a secret new directing project alongside filmmaker Mike Flanagan.
Best known for her role in Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle and Guardians of the Galaxy, Gillan is diving deeper into filmmaking – and not just acting anymore.
She and Flanagan go way back, having worked together on the 2013 horror film Oculus. They’re currently reteaming for the upcoming adaptation of Stephen King’s The Life of Chuck. But there’s more happening behind the scenes – Karen has revealed that she’s developing one of her own creations, which she’ll direct and maybe even star in.
Talking to The Hollywood Reporter, she said, “Oh gosh, this is going to be so annoying. I can’t actually talk about what it is, but I’m teaming up with Mike again on one of my own creations, which is really exciting.” She added, “Something that I will direct for sure, perhaps act in at the same time. I don’t know how I do this to myself, but here we are again.”
For Gillan, this isn’t just a side project. She’s putting her full focus into original stories, saying she has a few more ideas in development. It’s a clear sign that her career is entering a new phase – one where she’s creating, shaping, and controlling the narrative from behind the lens.
Directing isn’t the only part of the filmmaking process that excites her. She’s also interested in editing. “I don’t know how to edit myself,” she admitted, “but being in that part of the process is amazing. That is where I definitely see my career headed now. It feels like I’m in a little bit of a new chapter.”
Gillan also gave credit to the directors she’s worked with over the years, especially James Gunn. She praised his ability to work with actors on a personal level, calling him a “brilliant football coach” who adjusts his direction depending on the actor’s needs. She said he has a unique psychological approach: “Who needs what and when? How do I give it to them? He is absolutely amazing at that.”
It’s clear that Gillan’s time on sets has shaped how she wants to tell her own stories. Taking lessons from directors like Gunn and Flanagan, she’s preparing to put her stamp on the industry not just as an actress, but as a filmmaker with a vision.
While details of the secret project are still under wraps, it’s a safe bet that fans of her acting and Flanagan’s horror sensibility have something to look forward to. Whatever this Karen Gillan directing project turns out to be, it marks a bold next step in her creative journey – and one that’s being taken on her own terms.
Jamie Wells has a knack for getting the inside scoop on Hollywood’s biggest stars and up-and-coming talent. With a sharp eye for industry trends and an ear for viral moments, Jamie covers everything from red-carpet events to behind-the-scenes drama in movies, TV, and celebrity culture.
